'01 vs '02 YZ 426 - what's the diff?

By inte, Posted December 25, 2004

New to Yamaha & considering purchasing one of these two models - what (if any) are the significant differences between these two model years?

Anything in particular to be aware of?

By Matt96xr6, Posted December 25, 2004

There are a ton of updates yearly to the bikes.

The biggest difference is the 2002 has the new lighter swing arm, different linkage, linkage bolts and longer shock. The hubs are wider, thinner spokes, Yamaha finally got the carb working right, lighter motor, lighter forks and BNG!

If you really want EVERY detail, go to the Yamaha dealer and purchase the 2002 Seminar update book. They list every change in detail and the benefits of the change.

By Satch0922, Posted December 25, 2004

By Sylvain, Posted December 26, 2004

Just like Matt96xr6 says plus Titanium valve and a better clutch assly. If you have to get one, the 2002 is the one .

By yz_for_me, Posted December 26, 2004

Just like Matt96xr6 says plus Titanium valve and a better clutch assly. If you have to get one, the 2002 is the one .

The '01 has Titatanium valves. I think 2000 was the last year of the steel valves. I don't think there were any big clutch changes between '01 and '02 either. If I'm not mistaken, the big clutch change was between the '00 and the '01. I could be wrong here though.

By rorhound, Posted December 29, 2004

By inte, Posted December 30, 2004

When I got it I knew it was used very little. After one ride, I'm wondering if it was ever ridden at all. There were absolutely no marks from boots, etc on any of the plastic/frame, etc... One trail ride yesterday & I've got some rubbing from the boots. No big deal, but I'm amazed that the thing looked untouched. The original tires were still on it ... still had the little rubber "hairs" on the front.

By lacofdfireman, Posted December 31, 2004

Hey just out of curiosity how much did you pay for your bike. I am also in the market for an 02 or earlier yz because I want green sticker. Thanks, Wanna sell it yet?

By Sylvain, Posted December 31, 2004

My mistake.

One of my friend had troubles with the bike clutch assly. He stated that the bikes of that year were known for this clutch problem. But after double check it came out as a 2000. Sorry for the misleading, but I still think that the 02 is the year to get.